Ruben Amorim reacts to Man Utd exit rumours and makes plea over his future

Ruben Amorim has openly responded to speculation linking him with a switch to Portugal to manage Sporting CP's fierce rivals Benfica following questions over his Manchester United future. The Portuguese boss had reportedly been earmarked as a possible replacement after Bruno Lage's sacking, with his own position at Old Trafford looking shaky in recent weeks.

Amorim struggled through a challenging debut campaign in English football. He's managed only two victories from United's first five Premier League fixtures this season too.

Portuguese media claimed that Joao Noronha Lopes, standing in next month's Benfica presidential race, held Amorim in particularly high regard.

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The 40-year-old manager was allegedly included on his shortlist of prospective coaching targets.

When addressing the speculation, Noronha Lopes said: "Ruben Amorim? He's a great coach, he has a contract with Manchester United. I won't comment on that. Of course I like him. He's a great coach and a Benfica fan. I don't have a contract for Ruben to sign."

The rumour mill was silenced when Jose Mourinho's appointment was confirmed by Benfica last Friday.

Amorim was subsequently questioned about the 'Special One's' new job during a post-match interview following the 2-1 triumph over Chelsea.

The United head coach served an apprenticeship under Mourinho at United during his early coaching days, and he spoke glowingly of his fellow countryman.

"He's the best Portuguese manager, and that won't change," Amorim told Portuguese channel DAZN.

"He's always been a very special person in our football, but also in the world, and he opened all the doors for us.

"I wouldn't be here if it weren't for Jose Mourinho. I think it's going to be a lot of fun for you all in Portugal, and we're going to enjoy it."

Regarding his own future, Amorim confirmed he had no plans to leave or seek a move elsewhere, addressing the speculation by saying: "It's what it is and we'll see what happens.

"But [I'm] focussed only on Manchester and that will be my only club."

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